China Travel Forum

[Anna]

Hi,
i will be in Xian in March. Have some questions :

1. Is 2 full days sufficient to cover the major sightseeing place ?

2. I need a local tour guide to bring me to these places. I do not need an English speaking guide (which is what the online travel companies are selling) and do not need a private tour (ie. i dont mind being part of a large group).
Does anyone has any recommendations for such travel agencies ?

3. Apart from joining a local tour, i guess another alternative is to get a chauffeur or taxi driver to ferry me around to these places ( i noted a local by the name of Clarence has posted an ad in this forum). Then my questions are :
a) ssume the driver will just park and wait for me while i do my sightseeiing. Does these sightseeing places have info leaflets or info stands at the exhibits for me to read so that i know what i am viewing or i do really need a guide to tell me the history or story.

b) anyone know how much the drivers will charge for such service ? If it similar to joining a local tour, i might as well do that

4. will be staying at the Hyatt Regency. Is the location central and any good local eating places near the hotel ?

Please advise. Thanks.

[Omar]

First of all, a Lonely Planet China is almost enough for you to do the travelling yourself.

1. 2 days are sufficient but tight.
2. No need to consult travel agencies. Coz all the sites to visit are in downtown Xi'an or not far away from the city and several shuttle buses run on the line(e.g. Terra-Cotta).
3. Applicable. But not recommended. Coz buses run each of the places of interests.
a) Yes. But it's strongly recommended to get a guide in Terra-Cotta Museum or rent a recorded audio guide. The museum has too much knowledges.
4. The hotel has the best location in downtown area.